The basics: part 1

This is the first in our new series of short videos, coming soon to a new FAQ page. Some of these things might be super easy to you, but to someone else those things can be new and confusing. We were all new at doing some thing at some point, right?

Scenario 1:

You downloaded your Zipped file folder (Zip file) purchased here or in our Etsy shop. You go to open it up in Silhouette Studio, Design Space, etc. and the files aren't showing up. You know you downloaded the file, but they aren't showing up in the window when try to open them in your software. The file isn't broken, and you didn't do anything wrong. You just need to take one more simple step! You need to Unzip or Extract the files from the Zip file.

What's a Zip file?

Think of it like a clear plastic storage container. It keeps everything together, so that you only need to grab one thing ( instead of the 5 inside it ). It keeps the downloading (and uploading) simple, and makes getting all the file formats to you faster!

Just like with the clear container, you can see what is inside a Zip file without actually opening it. In Windows, you may be able to click on the file folder and see the names of the files without unzipping it. It's a bit confusing, but that is really just a preview of what is inside. You can't open and actually use those files in your programs until after you Unzip or Extract the files (open the container).

So, without further ado....

HERE IS WHAT YOU NEED TO DO NEXT:

1) Open the folder where you saved your downloaded file.

2) Find the zip file.

Hint: the name usually starts with "ZIP" or "UNZIP_ME__FILES_INSIDE"

3) Right click on the zip file.

4) Choose "Extract All".

5) Check the box to "Show Extracted Files when Complete", and look above to see what folder it is going to place your extracted files. You can click on browse and change the location if you need to.

6) It's ready! When you open up your design program, you will go to this folder, and choose the file you need.

WHICH FILE TYPE IS BEST?

SVG, EPS, and DXF files are the best for cutting machines and do not require tracing. You can use any type that is compatible with your design software. Use SVG or EPS if possible, and if not then use the DXF.

JPG or PNG are used most often for printable iron-on designs, print-and-cut, and printed decorations.

Disclosure

The Savvy Mermaid is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.

We use this program to link you to relevant products that you can use with your design purchases, needed supplies, products that we post about on our blog, and things seen in our blog's videos.